Every year on April 24th, Portugal celebrates one of the most remarkable moments in its modern history — the Carnation Revolution. A peaceful military coup that took place in 1974, this revolution not only ended decades of dictatorship but also inspired a profound transformation in Portuguese society, politics, and identity.

The roots of the Revolution

For over 40 years, Portugal was ruled by the authoritarian Estado Novo regime, led first by António de Oliveira Salazar and later by Marcelo Caetano. Under this regime, political freedoms were limited, censorship was widespread, and colonial wars in Africa drained resources and lives.

But on the morning of April 25, 1974, the Armed Forces Movement (Movimento das Forças Armadas – MFA), composed largely of young military officers tired of the colonial wars and authoritarian rule, launched a coordinated coup. Their objective was clear: to bring down the dictatorship and restore democracy.

What followed was extraordinary. As the tanks rolled into Lisbon, the population flooded the streets — not with fear, but with flowers. Citizens placed red carnations into the barrels of soldiers’ guns and onto their uniforms, symbolizing peace and solidarity. Not a single shot was fired. The revolution succeeded in less than 24 hours.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the key places and landmarks connected to the Carnation Revolution — locations where history was made and where you can revisit the spirit of April 25th.

Lisbon

Although actions took place across the country, Lisbon, as the seat of government, became the main stage of the Revolution. Several events unfolded in the capital on April 25, 1974. If you’re in the city, be sure to visit:

• Terreiro do Paço – where the military began asserting control.
• Largo do Carmo – the site of Prime Minister Marcelo Caetano’s surrender.
• Chiado – a central neighborhood that witnessed the people taking to the streets in celebration.

These locations still echo with the spirit of the revolution and are powerful reminders of the nation’s peaceful fight for freedom.

Peniche

Famous for its world-class surf at Praia dos Supertubos, Peniche is also rich in historical and cultural heritage. A must-visit site is the Peniche Fortress, which dates back to the 16th century.

During the dictatorship, the fortress served a darker role — it was used as a prison for political opponents. Today, it stands as a symbol of resistance and remembrance, housing the National Museum of Resistance and Freedom (Museu Nacional Resistência e Liberdade). This museum keeps alive the memory of those who fought for democracy and the cost of repression

Santarém

It was from the Practical Cavalry School in Santarém that Captain Salgueiro Maia and his troops began their journey to Lisbon, initiating the military coup that would end decades of dictatorship.

Visiting Santarém offers not just a look at Portugal’s military history but a chance to honor the bravery of those who led the peaceful revolution.

Grandôla

Located in the Alentejo region, Grândola is known for its stunning coastline stretching from Tróia to Melides. But beyond its beaches, the town holds a special place in revolutionary history.

The song “Grândola, Vila Morena” by Zeca Afonso became a powerful symbol of resistance. Broadcast on the radio as the second signal to begin the coup, it marked the moment for the Armed Forces Movement to move into action. Since then, it has become an anthem of the revolution, embodying the values of freedom, equality, and solidarity.

From Lisbon’s revolutionary streets to Peniche’s fortress walls, and from Santarém’s cavalry school to Grândola’s lyrical legacy — each place offers a chance to walk through history and remember the courage, hope, and unity of the Carnation Revolution.